Blog

Nocturia in Seniors: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Nocturia is defined as a medical condition in which one voids one's bowels at least twice per night, interrupting sleep.  Nocturia is a common ailment in older adults, especially those 70 years and older. Due to its prevalence, nocturia is usually dismissed as an inevitable sign of aging, however, the effects of nocturia affect the quality of life of the senior and should, therefore, be treated seriously. A significant number of falls occur during the night when a senior may be awakening and going to the washroom.  This can lead...

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The Benefits of Reading to the Elderly

Reading and oral storytelling is a beloved human tradition. People have been weaving dynamic stories about their histories and mythologies since the beginning of humanity. Storytelling, whether through accurate family histories, embellished fish hunting trips or literature fosters bonding between friends and family. Nowadays, people love to read for education and pleasure. It is usually a family tradition to read to children, but a love of storytelling can be always enjoyed as a life-long reader. Reading to the elderly, especially, can be a joyful source of companionship to both the...

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Tips for Seniors: Beating the Post-Holiday Blues

The joys of the holiday season can brighten up our lives. However, the highs of the holidays can also foreshadow the lows of the winter new year. The winter new year is often cold and gloomy compared to the joyous reunions of the family over the holidays. Due to this comparison, the post-holiday experience can feel quite lonely and depressing.  This is especially true for seniors, as they may live away from their friends and family and may not see them during this time.  beating the post-holiday blues can be...

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New Year’s Resolution Ideas for Seniors

The winter is full of tradition, and the celebration of the New Year is a global cultural phenomenon. Every family and culture have their own traditions during the passing of the new year, and New Year resolutions are often a key aspect. By making New Year resolutions, you are setting optimistic goals for your immediate future. It is an opportunity to take a look at your habits and consider how you can make positive changes to improve your quality of life. New Year’s resolutions are personal and tailored to you,...

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Stocking stuffer ideas for Seniors

It is that time of year again, time to show your generosity to your friends and family by getting them thoughtful gifts for the holidays. And if you are still searching for those last-minute stocking stuffers for your elderly loved one, you are not alone.  As caregivers or close friends and family to the elderly, you may be scratching your head trying to figure out which stocking stuffer would be right for your elderly loved one. Gifts are meant to be a reflection of your own thoughtfulness and generosity. The...

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Holiday Gift Ideas for Seniors

The holidays are the traditional time to show your appreciation for your loved ones and community.  Shopping for fantastic holiday gifts is not always easy, however, it makes it all worthwhile to see the big smiles on their faces. Shopping for children can oftentimes be easy as they are quite upfront about what they want and those lists on the letters to Santa can make it foolproof. However, shopping for adults and especially elderly adults can be a little more challenging. What do you get for the person who has...

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Grieving a Dying Loved One During the Holidays

In many countries of the world, the winter holidays are often stated to be the most magical and wonderful time of the year. However, due to this sentiment as well as the emotional gravitas that we put upon this time of year, it can lead to mixed emotions when the holidays do not feel the way that you think they should.  the holidays are about coming together with friends and family and sharing the joy and of building those memories together. However, as the expectation is to spend time with...

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Tips for Dealing with an Elderly Parent Who Wants to Leave a Nursing Home

The choice to integrate an elderly loved one's life into a community living environment can be very challenging. There are many angles to consider including personal preferences, cultural requirements as well as health and safety.  And just when things are settled and you found the perfect place for your elderly loved one to live out the rest of their days in comfort and safety, you may hear the dreaded words “I want to go home”. This may feel devastating, especially to someone who has worked hard to look at all...

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Fun and Festive Holiday Activities for Seniors

It is almost that time of year again - time for joy and celebration to re-enter our lives for the holidays and the upcoming festivals.  The winter is a magical time of year where, in Canada, the climate gets cold and a little inhospitable, but communities grow warm with good company and the love of our friends and family.  Every family celebrates the holidays in their own unique ways with their own fun traditions.  And your elderly loved one may be the matriarch or patriarch of those family traditions.  However,...

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The Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

While video games have been around since the 80s and you usually associate them with children and young adults, it may come as no surprise to you that video games can be just as beneficial for people over the age of 60 as they are for those eight and below. Video games are a delightful pastime and can be incredibly immersive. This can make them a perfect hobby for seniors who want to strengthen their working memory and keep their cognitive skills sharp. While video games can be a point...

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